The Dental Braces Process - Treatment, Removal and Rehabilitation

When a person is referred to an orthodontist, they first undergo a consultation involving initial examination, discussion of the dental history, and evaluation of their teeth and mouth X-rays. This helps the orthodontist determine if the condition is sufficiently serious to require dental braces, and if so, what is the most appropriate treatment, and how long it takes. But sometimes, an orthodontist might feel that another treatment option will not only correct the problem but will suit the needs of the person much better.

Braces Procedure

When applying dental braces a cheek retractor is used during the process to keep the teeth clear and dry. First, the teeth are polished to ensure the brackets attach properly, after which they are air-dried. 

A conditioner is used for 30 seconds on the front surfaces of the teeth to better prepare the brackets for bonding. This is washed off, the teeth are dried, and the teeth are placed with an adhesive primer to improve the bonding process.

Cement is mounted on the back of the braces, and then applied to the predetermined teeth locations. When the brackets are in place, excess cement is removed and with a high-intensity light the brackets are hardened into place. The retractor is removed, and the wires of the dental arch are then set in place.

It can take 10 to 20 minutes to bond the brackets and position the arch wires anywhere. Sometimes the length of time is determined by the time it takes to correctly place the components to treat the particular condition of the individual.

If braces are put first and then changed later, you should expect to experience some tightness, which usually progresses to soreness, for around four to six hours after your appointment. This soreness is a direct product of locking the teeth into place by arch wires. Over-the-counter pain relievers (OTC) are prescribed to help alleviate this discomfort. You should expect the pain to diminish in around three to five days.

Adjustments 

When your braces are in place they require daily adjustment appointments. This is because, over time, the elastic links that keep the wires in the proper position stretch and weaken. Without modifications, the wires will be unable to create the right pressure to correct the dental problems which need treatment.

Your orthodontist will also have the ability to examine the movement of your teeth and the progress achieved during change visits. This makes recommendations which may enhance the treatment plan's final outcome.

For tooth movement it takes a minimum of three weeks, meaning that several improvement visits are made every three to ten weeks. However, with the newer wires available today, modifications may be needed less often, as they appear to have longer working ranges.

Appointments for adjustment include removing the coloured elastic ties which hold the dental braces. Even the arch wires are cut so you can clean and properly floss your teeth. Your orthodontist will then monitor the success of the procedure and prescribe new cables and braces. If at this time there are alternative treatment options available, your orthodontist will discuss them with you. New wires and elastics are then inserted to shift the teeth forward and begin treatment.

For brace wearers, maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential and avoiding certain types of foods. Insufficient brushing will result in damage to the enamel, so it's very necessary to brush at least three times a day. Many orthodontists recommend taking with you a tooth brush so you can brush your teeth after lunch or at work or studying.

For even better oral hygiene, interdental brushes and a water pik can be used to clean the wires under the dental arch. Fluoride mouth rinses are also advised to protect the underlying structure of the enamel and the dents.

Orthodontists also recommend diets that avoid sticky foods, since they can get trapped under the braces and can cause detachment. Strong foods and sweets should also be avoided; they may sever the bond between the brackets and the enamel, or even the braces themselves.

To avoid damage, foodstuffs such as apples should be cut into pieces. Avoid foods and drinks that have a high sugar and acid content, since they make oral hygiene much more difficult and could cause damage to enamel.

Removal

When your orthodontist decides your treatment is complete, it will remove your braces with a quick and relatively painless operation. The bond between the brackets and your teeth is broken gently and firmly. The adhesive bond breaks when the bases of the brackets are squeezed, and the brackets are removed. The adhesive is placed on the teeth during this process to avoid damage to the enamel and the surface of the dents.

Once all brackets are removed, the remaining bonding cement is removed using a dental hand piece. This hand piece is typically the same tool that would be used for repairing a cavity, but pain is minimal because no tooth structure is being removed. Your gums may be slightly inflamed after all bonding cement has been extracted but this will usually subside with regular brushing and flossing in a few days.

Approximately one to two weeks after the removal of the dental braces, an appointment for retainer placement is produced. However, retainers can sometimes be made and installed at the appointment for removal of the braces.

Retainers are disposable orthodontic appliances that are required for orthodontic care during the retention period. During this recovery period, the teeth are relatively fragile and must be maintained to ensure rehabilitation is done properly.

Specifically the retainer is made for your mouth. Sometimes it is appropriate for someone to wear the retainer full time for the first six months following the removal of dental braces. The retainer will only need to be worn at night during this duration but this time is decided at the discretion of the orthodontist.

You can see your usual dentist for a cleaning of the teeth once the braces are removed. Your orthodontist can remove any left-over adhesive from your teeth and the area where the braces were, but after removal it is necessary to have a thorough oral cleansing.

Teeth whitening may also be suggested, as there may be a visible color difference between where the brackets were bonded and the surface of the enamel. While you can use gels or toothpastes to whiten your teeth with braces in place, it is advised that you wait until the dental braces are removed to avoid any color malfunctions or potential harm to the orthodontic components. 

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At Tooth Affair, we are known for providing best dental health care services to all individuals. Backed by a state of the art infrastructural facility and a dedicated & well trained staff, our dental care center has carved a niche in the industry by offering excellent oral and dental services at all levels. We believe in serving our patients with utmost care and concern. The dental specialists at Tooth affair use most advanced equipment and technology to give you the award-winning smile and attractive look.